St. Albans Queens Pays Homage To A Tribe Called Quest With Timeless Mural #RIPPhifeDawg

On March 22, 2016 the Hip Hop wold lost one of its most legendary figures in Malik Izaak Taylor better known as Phife Dawg to complications from Diabetes. As the tributes from across the globe poured in it was evident that Phife along with his brothers in the group A Tribe Called Quest which included Q-Tip, Ali Shahheed Muhammad and Jarobi White left an impact on Hip Hop that is undeniable. To further cement Tribe and Phife’s music and imagery into American History, The neighborhood where Phife grew up has been blessed with a timeless piece of art that will stand as a gift for their contributions.

Vincent Ballentine, also an artist, was tapped to create the mural honoring the esteemed group. “They are legendary for a reason. They earned their place in history,” Ballentine said. “It went from we want do this…to we have to do this,” Ballentine also stated.

Organizers then went on a mission to seek out the remaining members of the group along with the with the artist behind the cover art for two of the group’s albums, “Midnight Marauders” and “The Low End Theory.” Choosing a location for the mural was an easy feat. Supporters chose for it to be created on the side of Nu Clear Dry Cleaners on Linden Boulevard and 192nd Street. This is the same location where the group shot the famed video for “Check The Rhime.”

Today and forever A Tribe Called Quest will be emblazoned on the wall at this location showing the love and support of everyone who ever bought a tribe album, went to a tribe show or was just touched by the outstanding originality of their music. The finishing touches on the mural will include the faces of all of the Tribe members.